The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of $2,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person seen kicking his dog in a surveillance video.

The Case: News reports give the following account: On May 12, several people heard a dog yelping and a man screaming in the area of Herr and Front Streets in Harrisburg, PA. A resident checked his security camera to see the man walking his dog, then stopping to kick the animal twice, once in the side and once in the face.

Animal Cruelty: Securing the serious attention and engagement of law enforcement, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the whole community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and many other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.

“There is no excuse for abusing defenseless animals. The violence caught by a surveillance camera of a man kicking his dog is simply appalling,” said Kristen Tullo, the Humane Society of the United States Pennsylvania state director. “We hope our reward will help find the perpetrator of this horrible crime. We would expect that this individual be charged under the provisions of Act 10 of 2017, “Libre’s Law”.

“This poor dog can’t fight back, but you can. Make the call now,” states Harrisburg Animal Control officer Billy Sandstrom.

The Investigators: Harrisburg Bureau of Police is investigating this case. Anyone with relevant information is asked to call Dauphin County Dispatch at 717-558-6900. Request Animal Control Officers Billy Sandstrom or Fred Lamke.

Resources: The Humane Society of the United States Animal Cruelty Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources and support to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. The HSUS offers rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and works to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.

Not long ago, the National Sheriffs’ Association and the HSUS launched ICE BlackBox, a free smartphone tool, to allow users to record video of illegal animal cruelty and share it securely with law enforcement for possible investigation and prosecution.

The Humane Society of the United States doubled its standard cruelty reward from $2,500 to $5,000 thanks to a generous donation from an HSUS board member. To see information on statistics, trends, laws and animal cruelty categories, click here.